When  you are a military spouse, navigating a career can be challenging. But, with the right strategies and resources, you can build a rewarding and resilient career. Embracing adaptability and seeking support will help you along your professional journey. 

How to Manage a Career as a Military Spouse

There are several resources and strategies that can  help you effectively manage and advance your career as a military spouse.

Career-Building Resources

Leveraging military-specific resources can help you advance your career. Here are some programs designed to support military spouses.

• Spouse Education and Career Opportunities (SECO): Offers comprehensive career coaching, job search assistance, and educational guidance tailored to military spouses. 
• Military Spouse Employment Partnership (MSEP): With a network of more than 500 partner employers, MSEP connects you with employers committed to hiring military spouses. 
• Hiring Our Heroes: Provides workshops, career intensives, and networking opportunities to help you prepare for your next career move. 
• CareerOneStop: Offers employment, education, and relocation resources specifically for military spouses.
• Military and Family Support offices: Offer classes, counseling and support for job searching, resume-building, and educational opportunities for the service member, spouse and family on local military installations around the globe.

Focus on the Positive

The frequent moves of military life can make job interviews challenging for military spouses. Here are a few ways you can address your relocation concerns during an interview.

• Be transparent: If the company is military-friendly, be upfront about your relocation. Research the employer's stance on hiring military spouses so you know how to approach them. 
• Highlight your adaptability: Emphasize your ability to quickly adapt to new environments, thanks to frequent relocations.
• Discuss your commitment: Reassure potential employers of your dedication to contribute meaningfully to a team and work environment, regardless of your location.
• Prepare for common questions: Anticipate inquiries about your relocations, such as “How long will you be here?” Have confident, concise responses ready.

Develop Your Skills Between Jobs

If you want to be able to pursue additional opportunities or advance your career, use the time during your employment gaps to maintain and build your skillset. Consider the following approaches.

• Online courses and certifications: Many online platforms offer courses that align with your career goals to help you stay current in your field.
• Volunteer work: Engage in volunteer opportunities to gain experience and expand your professional network.
• Networking: To connect with others in your industry, join professional groups and attend virtual and in-person events.
• Use SECO resources: Access the career development tools and guidance that are available through the SECO program.

Tips for Building Your Career as a Military Spouse

The financial and emotional strain of frequent moves can make career advancement tough for military spouses. However, it’s possible to build a fulfilling and resilient career no matter where you go.

Develop Transferable Skills 

Cultivate skills that are applicable across various industries to boost your employability, regardless of location. Key transferable skills include:

• Adaptability: The ability to adjust to new environments and challenges.
• Problem-solving: Effectively identifying issues and implementing solutions.
• Communication: Clearly conveying information and ideas.
• Leadership: Guiding and motivating teams to achieve goals.
• Time management: Efficiently organizing tasks to meet deadlines.

Obtaining certifications further validates these skills. Many organizations and educational institutions offer online courses and certifications across various fields, including platforms such as Coursera and LinkedIn Learning.

Consider Remote Work

Working remotely (not commuting into an office or workspace) can allow military spouses to maintain a career regardless of location. Many companies recognize the value of offering remote positions to attract and retain talent. For example, Cushman & Wakefield, a leading real estate firm, has hired more than 1,400 Veterans and plans to hire 100 military spouses through remote work and multiple office locations. 

Look for Similar Roles When Relocating

When it’s time to relocate again, identify roles that align with your existing skills and experience, even if they differ from your previous positions. Networking can help you to connect with professionals in your new location who can provide insights into the local job market and potential opportunities. Joining groups related to your field on platforms such as LinkedIn can facilitate these connections.

To expand your options, consider additional training or certifications that align with in-demand roles in your new area. A proactive approach broadens your employment prospects and demonstrates a commitment to professional growth. For example, the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) offers programs that facilitate job transferability for military spouses, such as the Veteran and Military Spouse Talent Engagement Program (VMSTEP).

Benefits of Remote Work for Military Spouses

Remote work can be a fantastic opportunity for military spouses, helping them maintain their careers even when they're moving around. Being able to work from anywhere means you can stay with the same company no matter where your servicemember is stationed. This kind of stability allows you to keep growing in your career while avoiding the challenges of starting over with each new location.

The flexibility of remote work also helps military spouses find a good balance between their careers and personal lives. With the freedom to create your own schedule, you can easily juggle childcare and household tasks. This not only lessens any conflicts between work and home but can also lead to greater job satisfaction.

Finally, remote work eliminates the daily commute, helping you save money on transportation and have more control over your family budget.

Common Industries for Military Spouses

Several industries offer flexible and portable career opportunities. Below are some industries that are particularly accommodating to military spouses.

• Information Technology (IT): The IT sector offers a range of remote and flexible positions, including roles in software development, cybersecurity, and technical support. These positions often offer the adaptability needed to accommodate relocations and varying schedules.
• Government and Public Administration: Many military spouses find stable employment within federal, state, or local government agencies. Positions in this sector often offer benefits like flexible scheduling and support for military families. 
• Healthcare: The healthcare industry consistently demands professionals such as nurses, medical assistants, and administrative staff. Many healthcare roles offer flexible hours and are in demand across various locations, making it easier for military spouses to find employment after relocations.
• Human Resources (HR): HR jobs, such as recruiters, administrative assistants, and support workers, are well suited for military spouses seeking flexible careers. 
• Financial Services: This sector includes roles in banking, accounting, and financial planning. Many companies in this industry offer remote work options and flexible schedules.
• Customer Service: The rise of digital communication has expanded opportunities for remote customer service roles, making them ideal for military spouses who require flexibility. 
• Education and Training: Roles such as teachers, tutors, and educational consultants are often in demand and can offer flexible schedules.
• Entrepreneurship and Self-Employment: Starting a business or working as a freelancer can provide the flexibility to manage work alongside military family commitments.
• Real Estate: Military spouses can pursue careers as real estate agents or property managers, roles that often offer flexible hours and the potential for portability.

AAFMAA Is Here to Help 

We know that building a career as a military spouse is challenging, especially when it affects your financial future. Find out more about how AAFMAA supports military spouses, or learn about our Membership Benefits.